Described as “an epic science fiction drama about a gang of Victorian women who find themselves with unusual abilities, relentless enemies, and a mission that might change the world,” the series will be written, directed, executive produced and showrun by the “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” creator himself.

Donnelly will play Amalia True, “the most reckless, impulsive, emotionally damaged hero of her time. A menace to stuffy Victorian society, she would die for the cause and kill for a drink.”

“Laura Donnelly has charisma, wisdom and an anarchic precision that not only captures Amalia but defines her,” Whedon said in a statement. “She’s fierce and she’s funny — and I need both for the journey ahead.”